Nebraska Senator Ernie Chambers Celebrated for Sketching Skills

AP article highlights the longtime lawmaker's artistic talents from high school to the present day.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 6:33pm

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On March 22, 2015, the Associated Press published an article highlighting the sketching skills of Nebraska Senator Ernie Chambers, the state's longest-serving lawmaker. Chambers, who has represented Omaha in the Nebraska Legislature since 1971, told the AP that he began drawing in high school and continued the hobby through law school, where a professor even encouraged him to pursue art as a career.

Why it matters

Chambers' artistic talents provide a unique perspective on the life of a longtime public servant, offering a glimpse into his creative side beyond his well-known legislative work. The AP feature showcases how lawmakers can have multifaceted talents and interests outside of their political roles.

The details

In the 2015 AP article, Chambers discussed how he has maintained his sketching hobby over the decades, using it as a way to pass the time during legislative sessions and meetings. The article featured several of Chambers' drawings, including portraits and landscapes. Chambers said the artistic outlet has been a lifelong passion, dating back to his high school days.

  • The Associated Press article was published on March 22, 2015.
  • Chambers has represented Omaha in the Nebraska Legislature since 1971.

The players

Ernie Chambers

Nebraska's longest-serving state senator, who has represented Omaha in the legislature since 1971 and is known for his sketching talents.

Associated Press

The news organization that published the 2015 article highlighting Chambers' artistic skills.

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What they’re saying

“I started drawing in high school and continued through law school. A law professor told me I should pursue a career as an artist.”

— Ernie Chambers, Nebraska State Senator

The takeaway

Chambers' lifelong passion for sketching and drawing provides a unique window into the personal interests and creative talents of a longtime public servant, underscoring how lawmakers can have multifaceted lives beyond their political roles.